Dubrovnik - jewel of Croatia
On the Adriatic Sea coast in the south of Croatia, is the fine historical city and seaport of Dubrovnik which is Croatia’s most prominent tourist attraction.
Dubrovnik is a city unlike any other – its old white stoned and red roofed buildings are surrounded by walls also of white masonry, which run for two kilometres around the city, with picturesque turrets and towers. Even the streets themselves are shiny white slabs of the same beautiful stone. As dusk falls, the streets of the city seem to take on an almost luminous effect, and walking through the city at this time, with its many little alleyways and steps, its dancers and violinists, is a wonderfully romantic and memorable experience.
Dubrovnik has long been a highly cultural and wealthy city, and in the Middle Ages it was a clear rival to Venice.
Only a few of Dubrovnik’s Renaissance buildings survived the devastating earthquake of 1667, but still remaining is the Sponza Palace dating from the 16th century, and the Rector’s Palace, which is a Gothic-Renaissance structure resplendent with fine carving and a fabulously ornate staircase. Also worth a look is the St Saviour Church which is also from the Renaissance period, and situated next to a Franciscan Monastery, which also tends to be on the tourist trail, due to its cloister with octagonal columns, and fine sculpture. Also take a look at the 18th century St Blaise’s church, built in honour of Dubrovnik’s patron saint.
Not only is Dubrovnik steeped in history, but there are also some wonderful cafes, bars and restaurants in which to eat tasty seafood, and drink good wine. And don’t forget the delicious ice cream, available in many flavours, for which Croatia is so famous.
Filed under: Architecture, Croatia, Religious Sights, Historic Sights, Eastern Europe
